His Eye Is on the Sparrow – February 10, 2019 - Micah Gamboa, Executive Director of Elijah Rising and Kendleton Farms, is a modern-day abolitionist working to shift a hyper-sexualized culture. Elijah Rising and Kendleton Farms seeks to end sex trafficking through prayer, awareness, intervention, and restoration in Houston. Recently Micah experienced a medical emergency, but God in his grace restored Micah to continue to serve Him and care for her family. Join host David Schultz as we learn of Micah’s conviction to end sex trafficking and her confidence of God’s care in her life.
From a Mess to a Message – February 3, 2019 - After an encounter with God, at the age of 30, author and speaker Denise Mountenay changed her life. She overcame her addictions and began to publicly share her passionate testimony from a MESS to a MESSAGE. Her mess included being raped at 13, teen pregnancy, abortions and substance abuse. Her message is bringing hope and healing to those hurt and broken. Join host David Schultz in this candid interview and learn how Denise took her deepest pain and is using it to help others.
Salvation in a Notebook – January 27, 2019 - Randall Mooney and his wife have experienced the tragic loss of two sons in 18 years. But it did not launch them into times of depression, but rather, helped them find a place to serve the Lord in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Shortly after writing the book “The Homeless Church”, Randall decided to find a place that was desperate for the Word of God. He found it through a friend in Nigeria. God provided the message in the Gospel of John for Randall to put in the form of a notebook. He distributed 2,500 copies of the notebook, “Finding Hope in the Words of John”, in Nigeria. Join Randall and host Dave Schultz to hear of this amazing outreach of hope in Nigeria.
Abortion - Denial of the Gospel? How So? – January 20, 2019 - Program Part A - / Program Part B. Science can't tell us where life comes from, why we're here, or what makes us special. We rely on God's word to tell us about the sanctity of human life. The church’s failure to oppose and end abortion is a denial of the Gospel of Christ. We've given in on sexual immorality, divorce, and “alternate” gender choices, etc. In a world where anything goes abortion will remain a practical necessity. How can the unbeliever accept the credibility of anything we profess if we remain conforming cowards? Join host Matt Popovits as we hear from Pastor Larry White in this special Sanctity of Life Sunday back-to-back programming of Engaging Truth.
The Sanctity of Life – January 13, 2019 - Juda Myers, Founder of Choices4Life.org, joins Pastor David Schultz to talk about children conceived in rape and her fight to save the lives of these children and their mothers. The fundamental goal of Choices4Life is to educate the world about the value of every human life conceived.
God's Hand Guiding the Darrington Seminary Junior Class – January 6, 2019 - Brian, Robert and Gy were all surprised when asked to consider seminary training at Darrington Prison. Gy didn’t know what it entailed but couldn’t wait when asked. He is thankful for the training in preaching, teaching and tier walking. Robert was overwhelmed at what he found at Darrington, a peaceful, God-influenced atmosphere where he could serve the Lord with his gifts. Brian is greatly affected by the thorough education he is getting and anxious to see where the Lord will use him next. Their Director, Roderick Sweet, supports their enthusiasm and joy in their seminary training. Host Bill Prewitt.
Prison Ministry from the Top – December 30, 2018 - When a man’s life of crime is stopped, and he is incarcerated for life as a result of it, that’s one issue. But when his life is transformed by Christ to be a “new creation”, that’s altogether different. This is what is happening to the seminary students in the Darrington maximum-security prison, 35 miles south of Houston. Christ is transforming them to be new creations willing and ready to serve other inmates as field ministers in another prison setting somewhere in Texas. Join us as we hear from Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick of an incredible story of spiritual transformation. Dave Schultz hosts.
When God Visited the Earth and Stayed a While - December 23, 2018 - As many are preparing to observe Jesus' birth this Christmas, let's take some time to think about how God prepared this world for His birth into human flesh. The result of God's action is humanity's salvation. Join us as we hear Pastor John Cain's Christmas presentation and reflect on the Reason for the Season.
Prison Reform and Texas – December 16, 2018 - Join host David Schultz as he talks with Texas State Senator John Whitmire, an unapologetic advocate of prison reform and a force behind the Southwest Bible College seminary at the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s Darrington Unit. Describing what he calls the miraculous success of the program, Whitmire said, “Early on, we didn’t do a very good job of characterizing inmates – those who we were afraid of versus those who we were mad at.” But now, he says, “I understand public safety and accountability, but I see the value in a closed, safe situation allowing people to grow in their faith.”
Thriving in the Wake of the Washing of the Holy Spirit – December 9, 2018 - Join Pastor David Schultz as he interviews Pastor Jeffrey Willey, whose Christ United Church has survived two devastating floods as well as denominational upheaval. “God has raised up people across the nation to bless us so that we might be a blessing to others,” Pastor Willey said. “We are about discipleship and how to feed ourselves from The Word and teach others to do that as well.” The faithfulness of God has never abandoned those who seek Him.
Focusing on the Mission – December 2, 2018 - Join Pastor David Schultz as he interviews Pastor John Davis, transitioning to his new position as Texas LCMS Area "D" Vice-President. Pastor Davis tells us “God’s workers need encouragement because they’re facing challenges now they’ve never faced before. My ministry is to help clear the way for those coming after me who have excellent spiritual gifts and are forging new approaches toward mission in the 21st century. We do these things so that God’s house may be glorified.
The Role of Gratitude in the Life of a Christian – November 25, 2018 - Join Pastor David Schultz as he interviews Pastor Matt Popovits on the topic of gratitude. The gospel is a “gratitude magnifier”, a valuable tool for expanding our joy and appreciation of all things, but that gratitude does not come easily for us. In fact, the more we are blessed, the less inclined we are to be grateful to the One from Whom all blessings flow. The more “my cup overflows” the greater my urge to gripe about the size of the mug.
Driving Hope – November 18, 2018 - Cancer patients face a long road to recovery. While patients must undertake a difficult journey to fight the disease, many will find it even hard to find a suitable ride to and from their treatment hospital. The right kind of transportation is especially important because the treatment procedures often leave the patient weak and disoriented. Driving Hope of Texas aims to provide safe, comfortable, and affordable non-emergency long-distance transportation for cancer patients living in underserved communities in Texas. Join host Dave Schultz as he speaks with Phil Hohle of Driving Hope of Texas on how prayer, meditation, and encouragement are all a part of the ride.
Vision for Gospel Movement in Texas – November 11, 2018 - Join Texas District President Michael Newman as he reflects on his new role, the feedback he’s receiving, and the vision for a Gospel movement to develop in the Texas District and beyond. How can a district partnership be vibrant and vital? What has he been noticing as he’s traveled around the district so far? Pastor John Cain hosts this thought-provoking, lively discussion.
Word Alive! 52 Selected Sermons – November 4, 2018 - The Rev. Dr. Dale Meyer is the President of Concordia Seminary, a position he has held since 2005. He has been a pastor, professor, a vice president of our national denomination and the speaker of The Lutheran Hour worldwide radio program. In each place, Meyer's gifts as a communicator have been a blessing. Through all the changes, the core message is always the good news of Jesus. Now an author, (again) Meyer has a book of 52 sermons. Join us as we hear about this new resource. Rev. John Cain hosts.
The New Voice of The Lutheran Hour – October 28, 2018 - The Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler is the new speaker of the worldwide broadcast called The Lutheran Hour. The Lutheran Hour is the longest running Christian broadcast in the U.S. Starting in 1930, and broadcasting continuously ever since, The Lutheran Hour has grown to over 1,800 stations each week. Now they have expanded into Bible studies and other printed faith helps. His background includes being a former Air Force officer, educator and pastor. Let's meet this powerful voice for living with faith in an often-contentious world. Rev. John Cain hosts.
Does God Care About America – October 21, 2018 - With the mid-term elections a few short weeks away, our guest, Rev. Dave Welch, Founder & President, of the US Pastor Council, will speak about the concerns and involvement Christians should have in local state, and national government. Does God care about who serves in positions of judicial authority, or any position of governing authority? What relationship to the Gospel does voting and government have? Am I investing my life in things that have eternal value in reaching people for Jesus Christ? David Schultz hosts this timely discussion.
Same-Sex Attraction - To There and Back – October 14, 2018 - This week on Engaging Truth, guest Pastor Mike Goeke will speak with host Dave Schultz about his struggle with same-sex attraction, his acceptance of a gay identity and his redemptive journey home. But it was not without struggle. And why? Mike says it like this, "Sexual behavior is the end of homosexuality. It all begins with deep confusion, isolation, pain, and search for identity." He says that we might be able to keep a gay person from acting out, and that might make our world a little "neater", but that it does nothing for the heart and soul of the person struggling with same-sex attraction. Mike concludes, "I used to think that Jesus died for me in spite of my struggle with same-sex attraction, but I've come to understand that He died for me BECAUSE of my struggle. He knew me when He hung on the cross and knew that I would be powerless to live beyond my struggle without His sacrifice. Make it a point to join us for this heart-felt discussion.
Called, Equipped and Sent – October 7, 2018 - Join host David Schultz as we hear from Lutheran Laymen’s League-Lone Star District out-going President Gary Rohloff, reflect on the changes he has seen within the league and Lutheran Hour Ministries during his 41-year participation. We will also hear from president-elect Barry Samsel on engaging a new generation through podcasts, social media conversations, (thred.org), and video-based Bible studies.
Expanding the Kingdom Of God – October 7, 2018 - Rev. Jon Braunersreuther, Mission and Ministry Facilitator, Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, Texas District, joins host David Schultz to highlight the strong outreach-oriented DNA within the district. Demographics indicate there is much work to be done. The district’s church planning movement and the initiative to train lay evangelists to reach out with the gospel are important components to strengthening and building congregations to reach the lost, disciple the saved, and to care for people.
Inside Lutheran Hour Ministries – September 30, 2018 - Occasionally we have the pleasure of interviewing people from Lutheran Hour Ministries in St. Louis. Just recently, at the Lutheran Laymen’s League Lone Star District Fall Convention, we had interviews with two people actively involved in the inside work of the ministry. Jeff Craig-Meyer, LHM Vice President, Constituencies, shared the incredible outreach of the Gospel ministry that now reaches over 50 million people weekly world-wide. Polly Gregali, Ministry Resource Manager, provided insight into her responsibilities of making sure that those places in the nation and in the world that request resources get them in a timely manner and in their language. Dave Schultz hosts these informative interviews.
With Love from Pakistan – September 30, 2018 - Today we welcome Julie Aftab of POBLO Ministries. Julie’s early life was not easy. At 12 years old she began working in a factory in Pakistan to help her parents support their family. It was in her labor there that she was approached by one of the owners of the factory about her wearing a Christian cross. She said, “because I am a Christian”. Money was offered for her to leave her Christian faith and become Muslim. She refused three times, and on the fourth visit, she was severely injured and left for dead. But she did not die. It was God who stepped in with friends to help bring her back to health. Join Julie and host Dave Schultz as they discuss the “end of the story”, and where that has brought Julie in her faith walk today.
God’s Faithfulness – September 23, 2018 - Using the stories of the travelers on the road to Emmaus, and Daniel and King Darius, guest Pastor Chris Singer offers encouragement and insight into God’s faithfulness to His people. The travelers on the road to Emmaus were so absorbed with the loss of their prophet and leader that when they were joined by a fellow traveler they were unable to see the real Jesus. Daniel, an exile who came to greatness under the rule of Darius, was scorned by his Babylonian peers and subjected to a condemnation of death for worshiping God and not Darius.
Message to College-Bound Students – September 23, 2018 - This current group of college-bound students grew up under the shadow of terrorism but have been liberated by technology. They carry the hopes and dreams of making a difference in their communities and they despise the world’s brokenness. But, no matter our age, we are all sinners and all need a Savior. The mission of the church is to bring the Good News of Jesus to all the world, so we send out our students as Paul sent Timothy and remind them, “You are not the church of the future but the church of right now.” Join guest Pastor Chris Singer as he reminds us that as parents we may worry and stress, but Jesus loves our children more than we do. They are His first and ours second.
Reshaping the Prison Culture– September 16, 2016 - Join us as we visit with Brian, Chris and Shad, a trio of sophomore students from the Bible college at the Darrington Maximum Security Prison Unit near Houston. Not only has this vital program had a transformation impact on the students themselves, but it is helping to reshape the culture among the general prison population.
Who Can Forget 9/11? – September 16, 2016 - Most of us can remember where we were, who we were with and what we were doing at 8:48 a.m. on 9/11/01. The sadness of that time still grips us, especially as we think of the children whose parents were in one of the Twin Towers when they collapsed. Those children would never see their parents on this earth again. They were gone into eternity. So, we think this week not only of the 2,970 people in the towers who lost their lives, but the 343 first responders who lost their lives as well. We need to still be in prayer for their families. Join Bill Prewitt and Pastor Dave Schultz in a provocative discussion of what happens among God’s people when fear grips the heart and mind, and the providence of God in such unexplained tragedy.
Finding Hope: In the Words Of John - September 9, 2018 - When Pastor Temi Akran returned to the U.S. from his trip to Nigeria, he told his Friday morning men's group about his time in Lagos, giving away Bibles and writing tablets. Nigerians love to receive Bibles, and love to have pencils and notebooks to write on. Author Randall Mooney was so inspired by Temi's story that he asked, "What if the Bible and the notebook were the same book?" And that's how it started. Over the course of that year, Dr. Mooney worked on a version of the Book of John, that could be read by Nigerians in their own country, and have that book also be used as a notebook. This new book would be distributed throughout Nigeria and Africa, helping people find hope in the words of John. Host David Schultz will speak with Dr. Mooney about the words that restore hope and peace and words that have the power to transform lives.
Revisiting Friends of Engaging Truth – August 26, 2018 - Engaging Truth continues to showcase ministries and participants from the recent Texas District Convention of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. This week we reconnect with past guests who were at the convention including, Steve Cohen of The Apple of His Eye Ministry, a mission to bring the gospel message to fellow Jews; Jeff Frosch, Director of Alumni Relations at Concordia University in Austin; Becca Jones, Executive Director at Texas District Church Extension Fund; Herb Keistman of the Lutheran Heritage Foundation, which gives books of the Lutheran faith to people around the world in their own languages; and Jerry Kieschnick, former president of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, now with Legacy Deo.
Multi- Ethnic Ministries – August 19, 2018 - This week Engaging Truth will spotlight several multi-ethnic ministries from the recent Texas District Convention of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. Among the participants is Rev. Naveen Nischal, Executive Director of Reaching Indians for Christ and Director of the Lutheran Student Center at UT Arlington, speaking about reaching the immigrant Indian population; Solomon Yadossa, also passionate about reaching immigrants for Christ; and Yvette Moy, Glocal Mission Coordinator in the Washington Metro D.C. area, who ministers to the homeless, Hispanic, and Muslim communities.
Ministries Serving Both Large & Small Communities – August 12, 2018 - The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) Texas District Convention was held in July. Join us as we interview convention participants from various ministries that serve both large and small communities. Interviewees include Gerry Harrow of Fortress, a ministry that serves the world’s largest military installation; Brenda Segovia of RioMAC, a missional network across the Rio Grande Valley; Pam Daw and Amy Tilt of Alamo Hills Lutheran Church in San Antonio; Keith Lund of Lutheran Outdoor Ministries of Texas; and Kathy Smith of Driving Hope of Texas, a ministry that provides transportation for cancer patients to treatment centers in Texas.
Why Does Suicide Seem Epidemic? – August 5, 2018 - There was a time when a victim of suicide was buried without funeral services because it was a violation of God’s command, “thou shalt not murder.” The grave was located beyond the fences of the churchyard. At best, a pauper’s grave. All of that has changed because society and its ideals have drastically changed. Studies today show that depression is the major cause of suicide in all age groups. Geriatric suicide also includes “rational suicide” and physician assisted suicide. Moreover, suicide in young people has tripled over the past 45 years and is the 3rd leading cause of death in that age group. Join our guest, Sandy Bond, MA, LPC, as she shares her thoughts on the predictors of successful suicide, the “borders between thinking, acting and doing”, and how they are more tenuous than any of us would like to believe. Dave Schultz hosts.
Life Changing Ministries – August 5, 2018 - The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) Texas District Convention was held earlier this month. Join us as we interview participants from various Lutheran ministries that advocate for child and life issues. Katie Evans of Acts of Love on child care for teen parents, Nikki Kueck of Faith Lutheran High School, Dan Zieschang with Upbring on breaking the cycle of child abuse, and Barbara Geistfeld with Lutherans for Life.
Support and Encouragement for Teen Moms – July 29, 2018 - Today's teens seem to live in their own world, more dependent on each other and their electronic devices than those who can provide for them. But where do they go when tough times hit? Is there a community that will take them in to help when they are desperate? Yes. In Houston there is the Teen Life Center. TLC specializes in care for pregnant teens. It provides a safe place for them to bring their child into the world; it provides physical, emotional, and spiritual care for those who have special need for love, mercy, and hope. Join TLC Executive Director, Jennifer Simpson, as she speaks boldly about the Teen Life Center with Host Dave Schultz. You will be blessed by her passion for teen moms and TLC's commitment to creating a positive community that supports and encourages teen moms.